Rich Logis on Leaving MAGA and the Cost of Changing Your Mind

Why do people stay in political movements even after they begin to have doubts?

Rich Logis spent seven years as a committed MAGA activist, commentator, and organizer before ultimately leaving the movement and founding Leaving MAGA, a nonprofit that helps people who are questioning or leaving MAGA find community and support. In this conversation, Rich explains why he was initially drawn to Donald Trump, how political identity became intertwined with belonging, and what made it so difficult to walk away.

The discussion explores misinformation, political tribalism, Christian nationalism, media ecosystems, and the emotional cost of changing deeply held beliefs. Rich argues that leaving MAGA is often less about changing political opinions and more about losing a community that provided meaning, purpose, and connection.

The conversation also examines whether MAGA can outlast Trump, the role fear plays in political movements, and why people across ideological lines need spaces where disagreement does not require dehumanization.

Book Mentioned

One Betrayal Too Many: Why I Left MAGA by Rich Logis

Relevant Links & Resources

Leaving MAGA

Guest Bio

Rich Logis is the founder and executive director of Leaving MAGA, a nonprofit organization that helps people leave the MAGA movement, reconnect with friends and family, and share their stories publicly. A former MAGA activist, commentator, and podcaster, Logis spent seven years deeply involved in the movement before leaving in 2022. He is the author of One Betrayal Too Many: Why I Left MAGA, a memoir that examines political identity, misinformation, community, and the challenges of changing deeply held beliefs.